The Making of a Nation eBook

For many men that which arouses their ambitions is
the call of a great opportunity or responsibility.
Note the change in General Grant’s life with
the outbreak of the Civil War. The unambitious
tanner becomes the untiring, rigid, unconquerable soldier.
Striking illustrations of this fact are many men, whose
character, as well as conduct after they have been
called to positions of political or judicial trust,
is in marked contrast to their previous record.
A corrupt lawyer has sometimes become an upright
judge. The pride of office, the traditions of
the bench have sustained him. It is the privilege
and duty of each man, by thoughtful deliberation and
study to shape and develop his own individual ambitions
that they may conform to the highest ideals and thus
guide him to the noblest and most worthy achievement.
Of what value to a man is biography in forming his
ambitions? Mention some biographies that you
consider of the greatest help. In what ways
are the life and teachings of Jesus of practical service
in developing the ambitions of a man to-day?

Questions for Further Consideration.

Is it possible for a man without ambition to develop
or to achieve anything really significant?

In your judgment, what percentage of the men in your
community really think out and carefully plan their
lives? What proportion drift or take the way
shown them by others?

Some people consider mental or moral inertia the chief
force that sustains the corrupt political boss.
Is this true?

What proportion of the voters in your voting district
actually study and appreciate the issues in each election?

What proportion of church members drift into their
church membership, and what proportion join only after
a careful study of the relative merits of the different
churches?

What are the chief ambitions that stir men to action?

What was Jesus’ ambition? Paul’s?
Florence Nightingale’s? Abraham Lincoln’s?
Peter Cooper’s? Garibaldi’s?
Dwight L. Moody’s? Was there a common
element in the ambition of each of these leaders of
men?

Is the realization of the ambition to serve one’s
fellow-men limited to those who possess unique powers
or opportunities?